Taste of Chicago is coming

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A long-awaited Chicago-style eatery is expected to open in Belleville by next month. Restaurateur Mike Naser says he can almost taste the Italian beef at his Tasty’s Chicago Grill on West Main Street in Belleville. He said he anticipates Jan. 11 opening and was inside the former Arby’s restaurant on West Main Street on Christmas Eve working on the newly revamped dining room and kitchen. The Belleville restaurant will be the third Tasty’s Chicago Grill for Naser, who also operates ones in Decatur and Peoria with a menu that features Chicago-style hot dogs, chili dogs, burgers, gyros and more.

One less McDonald’s in Collinsville

One of the three McDonald’s in Collinsville has closed its doors. According to management, the restaurant at 848 S. Morrison Road closed a week-and-a-half-ago because it was not drawing enough business. Collinsville is still home to two other McDonald’s locations at 503 Belt Line Road and 520 Ramada Blvd.

McDonald’s in Millstadt?

Speaking of the Golden Arches, the long-discussed coming of McDonald’s to Millstadt still remains up in the air. According to the village, discussion continues between a franchisee and developer over developing the town’s first “Mickey D’s” at the former Mertz Ford lot at South Jefferson Street and West Washington Avenue. The dealership relocated down Washington Avenue a few years ago. Stay tuned.

Make way for Circle K

Circle K has temporarily closed two former QuikTrip gas stations and convenience stores in Belleville as it transitions into town. Circle K is retrofitting both properties at 755 South Belt West and 1800 Lebanon Ave. and will soon reopen both.

Moo!

And finally, The Happy Cow recently reopened after temporarily closing. According to management, the Caseyville eatery had some in-house restructuring and needed to close its doors for 24 hours. You can find them at 601 N. Main St.